Bulimia

Bulimia and Substance Abuse

If you believe that you or a loved one is suffering from bulimia nervosa with a possible co-occurring substance abuse problem, now is the time to get the professional help that is necessary to recover.  Call our helpline, day or night, at 1-800-763-1562 and we will assist you in finding the treatment center that is right for you.  Operators are available around the clock to take your confidential call.

Bulimia and Substance Abuse - Shared Risk Factors

People experiencing problems with bulimia and/or substance abuse often share several key traits and risk factors including:

• The problem occurs in times of transition or stress
• Common brain chemistry
• Common family history
• Low self esteem, depression, anxiety or impulsivity
• History of sexual or physical abuse
• Unhealthy parental behaviors
• Unhealthy social pressures and peer norms
• Susceptibility to messages from advertising and entertainment media

Both bulimia nervosa and substance abuse problems produce mood altering effects, social isolation and other psychiatric disorders including suicide.  Both conditions are difficult to treat, and the first step towards recovery is learning how to recognize the behaviors, patterns and symptoms.

Bulimia Symptoms & Signs

Some of the physical symptoms and signs of bulimia nervosa are obvious and easy to spot, but others can be a bit more difficult to recognize.  Signs and symptoms of this common eating disorder are:

• Binging or eating uncontrollably
• Purging by vomiting or fasting
• Distorted body image
• Mood swings
• Going to the bathroom directly after meals to rid their bodies of food
• Constantly worried about weight gain
• Always unhappy with the way their body looks
• Excessive use of enemas, diuretics or laxatives
• Compulsive exercising
• Bloodshot eyes
• Irregular periods in women
• Swollen glands in the neck and face
• Sore throat
• Dental problems

If you have bulimia, a substance abuse problem or a combination of both, professional treatment is essential. Please call us today, toll-free, at 1-800-763-1562. Our caring professionals are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to offer you a free and confidential consultation.  We can help you locate a treatment center that will help you get back your life.

For additional information about Bulimia please visit www.EatingDisorder.com